11 MPG and hating it. Is this normal?

[stealthauto]

I recently picked up a 1995 4Runner and I am really happy with it overall. I am surprised that even with the 6 Cylinder, it is SLOW, but from what I read that is pretty normal.

What is really getting on my nerves in the MPG, I clocked in at just over 10 MPG around the city. Mind you, i have been driving it VERY easy.

For this test run, i had the ECT power switch to ON and the overdrive switch to OFF.

The car was recently tuned up (according to the previous owner) and the air filter looks brand new.

The check engine light was on for about a week but after I topped off the oil it went away.

Any ideas? I hear i should be getting between 15-18 and am not coming close.

Thanks for the help!

 

[sirhc360]

i have a '95 with the 3.0, i can get 20 mpg with mostly city driving. so yurs doesn't sound to good. but i dont have any suggestions except that it could be better

 

[pistol1000]

how many miles? i changed my muffler and my truck ran better it was old and falling apart same with the cat. but i blame the injectors and seals ....the y all have the same problems every last one of these trucks ..Head gaskets are common too ...

 

[r3d runner]

i got a 90 with like 240,000 miles on it all stock 33's 3.0 v6 and i get like 140 miles in a tank if im lucky

 

[the_dingman]

For this test run, i had the ECT power switch to ON and the overdrive switch to OFF.

From my understanding, the setting the switch to 'Power' sets the transmission to shift more aggressively, causing an increase in 'power' and a decrease in economy.

Turning off the overdrive is like driving 5 speed manual, and not using 5th gear. This causes your RPMs to be higher on the highway, and use more fuel.

 

[gizmopt2002]

Never take the PO seriously unless he has documentation.

Also, it depends on the gearing.

I also have the V6, auto, and 4.88 gearing. Also with 31's.

I average about 16 city, 20 highway.

If the PO has documentation about what was done, and it was done in a reasonable amount of time, then leave it, but I would replace the parts that he didn't, or is old.

Start cheap, then build up.

check cat if it is clogged, clean TB, air filter, cap & rotor, Seafoam the $h!t outta it, [2 cans in tank, 1/2 in crankcase, 1/2 in vacuum lines) replace fuel filter, plugs (ONLY Denso or NGK), plug wires (NGK or OEM, NO OTHER!), O2 sensor, ect.

 

[foskco87]

I have a 92, but havent ever calculated the mpg. I usually get about 265 miles to a tank, thats usually with some highway, some city, and a little trail. All I know is 10 mpg shounds pretty bad, thats like what a hummer gets.

 

[stealthauto]

Yeah, 10 MPG is awful.

I am not sure where to start. Maybe with checking the spark plugs? Changing the air and fuel filter?

 

[ManDownUnder]

Hey mate consider your self lucky the Ferrari 430 Scuderia got 1.1mpg.

If its EFI check the airflow sensor on the intake side.

 

[K_Labs]

Oil change tire preassure air filter if 4x4 grease up the front transfer case and w/e else it's all on the drivers side visor with detailed inst. spark plugs and wires.